Luxury for all budgets! Crete – Greece!

Perfect to visit all year round, particularly for outdoors’ lovers and wishing to find adventures in nature. More than 486 beaches and 9 marinas were awarded BlueFlags. You will beneath crystal clear waters and swim around the colourful fishes.

The Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature has announced that, out of a long list of 47 countries, Greece ranked number two on the Blue Flag quality awards last year. In total, the region of Halkidiki collected the majority of awards with 71 flags. In 2016, 430 beaches and 9 marinas around Greece were honoured with the quality Blue Flag award.

The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has announced “2017” as the Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development. Furthermore, the Blue Flag programme has reached 30 years of successfully accrediting awards to beaches and marinas worldwide.

The well-known island of Crete invites you for its National Park

Samaria Gorge

The Samaria Gorge is at world’s biosphere reserve and a great tourist attraction. Take the chance to visit the Lychnostatis Open Air Museum and the Nautical Museum. Discover the amazing underwater life at the CretAquarium.There are more than 2500 species.

Cretaquarium

Cretaquarium

Each tank of CretAquarium bears labels with hosted species’ names printed in nine languages (Greek, English, French, German, Italian, Dutch, Polish, Russian, Czech). For all those interested in getting to know more about the organisms hosted by CretAquarium, to learn more about its operation and the ecology of the marine environment, there are tour options. Check http://www.cretaquarium.gr/en/

Milos is another option for those who need a peaceful getaway. Relax, swim and go snorkeling. There are many cruises, choose the one that fits you. Next time in Greece we will go hiking so, please follow us if this is of your interest.

Nature and Blue Flag Global

The Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature (HSPN) is the oldest national environmental NGO in Greece, founded in 1951, and strives continuously for the protection of Greek nature since. It is active along four axes: environmental intervention; nature conservation; environmental education; sustainable management and general public awareness raising.

It has established the “Byron Antipas” prize, which is awarded to an individual or organisation that has decisively contributed to the protection of Greek nature; among its recipients is the renowned environmentalist Luc Hoffmann (2005), and the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew (2011).

It is a member of major international conservation organisations, such as the IUCN, and has been honoured for its work, it by the Academy of Athens, the Council of Europe and the Ford Foundation.

There are not many tour operators but planning yourself is quite easy. Yes, it’s time-consuming but I rather decide where to go, when and where to stay. Greece needs tourists. Go and visit! If by chance you like to book hotels, resorts, or a B&B do it now.

The Aegean Seas

Karpathos island in Greece

There are hundreds of crafts available and ferry services in the Aegean Sea connecting each island with its neighbours or with the Greek or Turkish mainland. Times and routes are subject to variation.

Golfing in Crete is a matter of Course

The Crete Golf Club at Hersonissos, Crete, is an 18-hole golf course of international standards designed by architect Bob Hunt and recently renovated to perfection.

Aegina, the island of light and artists

Offering clear bright light, significant archaeological monuments and wonderful nature, Aegina has always been a favourite place for Greek artists.

Ancient trails, cleared and signposted by the Aegina Active Citizens, enable trekkers to explore the island. The culture paths include a route that goes around Mt Ellenton; a trail from Stefentouri to Eleonas; a walking route in Ancient Eleonas that runs from Marathonas Beach to Pachia Rachi; and a trail from Pachia Rachi to the Panagia from Chrysoleontissas Monastery.

Nobody leaves Aegina without pistachios, a protected designation of origin (PDO) – status product rated as one of the world’s best in its category. Pottery has flourished on Aegina for approximately 3,000 years. Renowned ceramic artist Theodora Horafa and visual artist Katerina Giannaca live and work on the island.